Heart-breaking loss for CCC men's soccer team

By Steve Sell

November 16, 2017

BETHANY, Okla. — It was most likely a heart-breaking finish to the season on Wednesday for the Central Christian College men’s soccer team.

In the semifinals of the NCCAA Regional Tournament, the Tigers had a 1-0 lead over top-seed Southwestern Christian College in the second half, but the Eagles tied the game and then won it in overtime on a golden goal.

Central’s goal came from Jayke Maples, with an assist from Matias Nunez.

Central is now 10-9-1 and awaiting to see if it receives an at-large bid to the national tournament, though it is unlikely.

“I thought that we did enough to win the game today,” Central coach Aaron Hoxie said. “We defended very well, attacked with purpose and played with the heart that we expect. The soccer portion didn't smile on us today, however, as we missed several chances inside the box and were generally unlucky on the game-winning goal. I never thought that we were outmatched by them. Sure, they've got quality all over and are a really good team, but so do we and we showed it today. Actually, we've showed it all season, losing two games by one goal, at their place, against the defending NCCAA national champs, it's a tough journey that probably has ended."